William Suddarth Jr. Obituary (1950 - 2025)

William "Billy” Suddarth Jr., age 74, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Hardy “Billy” Suddarth Sr. and Virginia (Grant) Suddarth, and by his beloved son, William Patrick "Chip" Suddarth. He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Angela Chew Suddarth; children, Trent (Marielle) Suddarth and Tatum (David) King; stepchildren, Justin Chew and Jessica (Kyle) Shaffer; daughter-in-law, Ashley Suddarth; grandchildren, Ella Grace Suddarth, Owen Suddarth, Finnley Shaffer, and Hayes Shaffer; brother, Jimmy (Joanie) Suddarth; nephew, Brad (Lindsey) Suddarth; and family friend, Sherri (John) Jacocks. A Life Well Lived: Born on December 6, 1950, in Gallatin, Tennessee, Billy graduated from Gallatin High School with the “notorious” Class of 1969. He built a life filled with love, laughter, and meaningful friendships. Billy was passionate about travel and never met a stranger. Whether on the road or close to home, he made connections that lasted a lifetime. He was also a devoted fan of the New York Yankees and the Tennessee Volunteers. He bled UT orange and stood by the Vols through every win and loss. His Greatest Legacy: More than anything, Billy cherished his family. He loved being a husband, father, uncle, and “Big Daddy” to his grandchildren. His most treasured memories included: Double strollers across Disney, singing “Rocky Top” on Vol Walks, baseball games with the boys, watching his girls dressed for school dances, welcoming each grandchild into the world, attending the World Series in Yankee Stadium, shark diving in the Caribbean. Ending ski days with the final run from Elk Camp to the Magic Tower—with a child or two clinging to his ski poles. He lived his life to the fullest, and the joy he brought to those around him will never be forgotten. Forever in Our Hearts: We invite all who knew and loved Billy to remember and celebrate him whenever you: Watch a Tennessee game, hear “Rocky Top” or feel your toes in the ocean and warm beach sand. In Lieu of Flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Nathan Daugherty Society Scholarship Fund in memory of William “Billy” Suddarth Jr.